FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: News Media contact:
December 6, 1999 Linda Paris (202) 418-0500
Statement of FCC Chairman William E. Kennard
on AT&T-MindSpring Agreement
Today's agreement is a good first step toward providing consumers with a choice
of Internet Service Providers without paying twice. I applaud the companies and the
public interest advocates who participated in these discussions for their good faith efforts.
While government regulation now would only slow down broadband deployment,
the constructive dialogue evidenced by today's developments should hasten consumer
access to multiple high-speed Internet options.
The Internet is a rapidly growing and competitive force. Americans want multiple
options for high-speed Internet access. I encourage the stakeholders to continue to
develop market-driven solutions to serve consumer needs.
- FCC -